Clicky Skip to Content

Patti Roth

Patti Roth, the editor of Fort Lauderdale on the Cheap, scouts out state and national deals, discounts and coupons for our readers, finding the real deals and presenting them in an easy-to-read format. A veteran newspaper and magazine writer and a longtime South Florida resident, she has written for The Miami Herald, The Sun-Sentinel in Fort Lauderdale, Florida Travel and Life, E Environmental Magazine, Dog Fancy, Cat Fancy, US Architecture and Earth911.com. Send your cheap tips to her at info@fortlauderdaleonthecheap.com.

Floats, twirlers, and dancers are among entertainment featured in the Sistrunk Parade and Festival in Fort Lauderdale. Sistrunk Parade and Festival in 2026 is 8:45 a.m. Saturday, February 28, for the parade and 11 a.m. – 8 p.m. for the festival. Entry to the festivities is free.  The event is in association with Black History …

Read More about Free Sistrunk Festival includes a parade, entertainment & kids zone

Whether it’s an emphasis on romance, hanging out with friends, family and your pet, or treating yourself, Valentine’s Day is a perfect occasion to do something special. South Florida offers plenty of things to do, including lots of free live performances and art events.  Some of the Valentine events and date ideas are offered before …

Read More about Ideas for Valentine’s Day, plenty are free and a few indulgences

See works of art indoors and outdoors and shop wares from artisan vendors during the popular Downtown Hollywood ArtWalk. The free event typically takes place 6 p.m. – 10 p.m. third Saturdays on Hollywood Boulevard and Harrison Street. The events usually include live music by regional bands and entertainment featuring a  magician. Downtown Hollywood is …

Read More about Free downtown Hollywood ArtWalk event offers tours, vendors & live entertainment

For a frugal date night with a twist, Broward Library is offering an outdoor event in Fort Lauderdale for adults that features a violinist and stories by professional performers.  Moonlight Tales in 2026 is 6:30 p.m. Friday, February 27,  in the park, adjacent to the library at 100 S. Andrews Avenue, Fort Lauderdale. Registration is …

Read More about Broward Library offers free Moonlight Tales for adults

Enhance your yard, patio and indoor areas with plants, including native species and edibles. Lots of free information is available for South Florida residents, such as  tips on selecting the perfect plants for a particular area.  For personalized information, landscaping experts from extension offices in Miami-Dade, Broward & West Palm Beach answer questions via phone …

Read More about Free resources & ideas for enhancing your Florida yard

Fresh air. Live music. Food trucks. Pack a blanket. Entry for Tunes ‘N Trucks in Sunrise is free.   Tunes ‘N Trucks outdoor events in Sunrise offer free concerts and dining options from your favorite food trucks. The popular series runs October through June and rotates through Sunrise parks.  Live music is at 7 p.m. and …

Read More about Free Tunes ‘n Trucks in Broward

Kids work with their hands putting together fun projects at free interactive workshops offered in South Florida at participating Home Depot and Lowe’s stores. At the workshops, youngsters build a toy truck, a photo holder, or other item. Parents or others are invited to work with them. It’s a good idea to register online, especially …

Read More about Free youth DIY workshops at Home Depot & Lowes

While lots of parks in South Florida are relatively flat, Vista View Park in Davie is distinctive for its relatively tall terrain, with parts about 65 feet above sea level. Entry to Vista View  is free on weekdays. On weekends and holidays, the fee is $3 per vehicle for up to 8 people or $20 …

Read More about Vista View Park in Davie offers fitness equipment and free weekday entry

Old Town in Pompano Beach is the venue for free Backyard Jam events featuring local and regional bands. The events are 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. select third Fridays and entry is free. Entertainment  includes: December 19. More Better Band January 16. JP Soars and the Red Hots February 20. Acoustic Fingers March 20. Revibe …

Read More about Live band at free Backyard Jam events in Pompano Beach

Living on the CheapSouth Florida on the Cheap is a member of Living on the Cheap, a network of websites published by frugalistas, journalists and consumer advocates. Find practical advice on saving money on groceries, travel and shopping, plus tips from our experts on how to live the good life for less at Living on the Cheap.

Living on the Cheap in the Media